Abstract: To study the variations of autonomic nervous system in hypertensive patients using a set of autonomic function tests. The study included 50 hypertensive patients and set of autonomic function tests were done to assess the autonomic functions. These results were compared with age and sex matched controls (normotensives). The subjects were selected based on exclusion-inclusion criteria. Hypertensives show abnormal values on autonomic function testing, when compared with normotensives. The statistically significant differences were found between hypertensives and normotensives in some autonomic function tests. The results were obtained using ANOVA and student‘t’ –test, to study the significance of autonomic parameters. Results showed that there was significant increase in the Heart rate response to standing. Valsalva ratio & Heart rate response to deep breathing test values were decreased in Hypertensives as compared to Normotensives (p<0.05). S: L ratio also decreased, and the decrease was statistically significant (p<0.05). Isometric handgrip exercise and cold pressor tests shows that there was significant rise in the systolic and diastolic blood pressure in Hypertensives as compared to Normotensives increase was statistically significant (p<0.05). From this study, it is evident that Hypertension can alter the normal autonomic functions of the body and predisposes to autonomic neuropathy. Early and regular screening of these individuals is necessary to prevent any future complications.
Keywords: Autonomic nervous system, Hypertension, Blood Pressure, Valsalva ratio, Deep Breathing Test, Cold pressor test.
Title: Study of Autonomic Function Tests in Hypertensives
Author: Chiranjeevi kumar Endukuru, T.S.Deepthi, Sharan B.Singh
International Journal of Life Sciences Research
ISSN 2348-3148 (online), ISSN2348-313X (Print)
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